MA: Boston Harbor Islands
“It’s human nature to stretch, to go, to see, to understand. Exploration is not a choice really; it’s an imperative.” – Michael Collins
When Erin and I talked about her visit, she said not to stress about entertaining her. She said to look online for free concerts and/or events happening in Boston for the weekend. She said she just wanted to hang out, and she would be fine walking around. The next morning, the first thing I saw in my Facebook feed was an intriguing article by the Boston Globe. There would be free ferry rides from the Long Wharf North Ferry Terminal to Georges Island, one of the Boston Harbor Islands. 
I love to explore. I love islands. I love doing these things for free. I was definitely curious. I sent Erin the article to gauge her interest, and I started researching the islands. Even though I grew up on the North Shore, I did not realize the islands existed. Shame on me. Saturday morning, I scheduled my first Uber ride to the wharf. The process was easy, and we were there in no time. Since the tickets were first come, first serve, I wondered if we would be exploring the island or coming up with a plan B. Lucky for us, we scored two tickets on the first ferry to Georges Island. 
We were like two, giddy school girls on the first day of school, wondering what the island would be like. The two ladies in front of us were also curious and asked us questions. Although they were from China and were only spending a year working on a research project at Harvard, they knew more than us. When we arrived, we walked the entire island and explored the historic Fort Warren, which was a prison during the Civil War. The fort encompassed most of the island, as the island is small. Parents set up picnics and enjoyed the sunshine, as their children played in the small playground. Erin said her kids would love visiting the fort and frolicking around on a warm summer’s day. There was also a small restaurant, which was closed during our time there. 
We spent an hour on the island before heading back. One day, I will island hop the Boston Harbor Islands and check out the historical sites, as well as hike and picnic. The free ferry ride was a great way to learn the islands existed and explore a different part of Boston. View my travel pictures. Check out my Massachusetts adventures.
